Dubai: In a rare expression, survivors of domestic violence, abuse and human trafficking from the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) have created a series of artworks which will, for the first time, go on public display and sale in Dubai early next month.
The exhibition cum sale, titled Seasons of Change, will feature 30 artworks in all and will be held at the Dubai International Art Centre from September 6 to 16. All funds raised will go to the foundation to further empower and support its inmates.
Moral fabric
Fiona Petrocelli, a volunteer with DIAC on whose initiative the exhibition is being held, said, “With all the glitz and glamour that seems to be promoted about Dubai, it is organisations like DFWAC that are weaving the moral fabric of this diverse expatriate and growing community and tackling what are the taboo issues that exist not only here but all over the world.”
Petrocelli, who has been hosting art workshops for the women and children survivors with support from DFWAC since March 2016, said and the sessions resulted in the production of some of the most inspiring and positive paintings. Ghaya Al Habtoor, marketing executive at DFWAC, said, “The artists are women who are survivors of domestic violence, child abuse and human trafficking.
This art exhibition is a great way to boost the confidence of the women behind the paintings; the funds will help support women empowerment programmes and support women in need. We would like the community to know more about the foundation and its services in helping abused women & children in order to have a society free of violence.”
Asma Al Suwaidi, senior activities coordinator at DFWAC, said, “The art workshops helped the women and children to relax, express themselves, forget about their personal problems and focus on their creativity. When they were painting, they were in another happy world.”
WHAT: Seasons of Change
WHEN: September 6-16, 5pm to 7pm
WHERE: Gallery 76 at the Dubai International Art Centre
